An outdoor museum featuring sculptures and art installations, with a focus on 20th-century art and a Picasso Pavilion.

The Hakone Open Air Museum is a unique and innovative museum located in the scenic town of Hakone, Japan. Unlike traditional museums, this one is set outdoors, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of sculptures and artworks in a beautiful natural setting. The museum is home to over 120 sculptures by famous artists from around the world, all displayed in a sprawling park with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. /n In addition to the outdoor exhibits, the museum also features several indoor galleries, including the Picasso Pavilion, which houses a comprehensive collection of Picasso's ceramic and bronze works. The museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational destination for visitors of all ages. The Hakone Open Air Museum is not just a place to see art, but a place where nature and art interact to create a unique and unforgettable experience.

A unique outdoor museum showcasing sculptures and artworks.

A crater lake offering boat tours and views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

Lake Ashi, also known as Ashinoko, is a beautiful crater lake located in Hakone, Japan. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. /n One of the best ways to experience Lake Ashi is by taking a boat tour. These tours offer a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings, and are a great way to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're interested in nature, photography, or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, Lake Ashi is a must-visit.

A beautiful crater lake offering stunning views and boat tours.

A volcanic valley with active sulphur vents and hot springs, known for its black eggs boiled in the hot springs.

Owakudani is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hakone, Japan. This volcanic valley is known for its active sulphur vents and hot springs, which create a unique and mesmerizing landscape. The area is also home to the famous black eggs, which are hard-boiled in the naturally hot water of the springs. These eggs are said to prolong one's life by seven years if eaten. /n The valley offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days, making it a popular spot for photography. Visitors can reach Owakudani via the Hakone Ropeway, which itself is an exciting experience as it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Apart from the natural attractions, there are also several shops and restaurants in the area where visitors can sample local cuisine and buy souvenirs. Despite the strong smell of sulphur, a visit to Owakudani is a unique experience that should not be missed when in Hakone.

Owakudani is a volcanic valley with active sulphur vents and hot springs in Hakone.

A Shinto shrine located near Lake Ashi, known for its iconic red torii gate in the lake.

The Hakone Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located on the shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone, Japan. This beautiful shrine is a place of tranquility and spiritual significance, attracting both locals and tourists. /n The shrine is nestled in a dense forest, and the path leading up to it is lined with ancient cedar trees, adding to its mystical atmosphere. The shrine itself is a stunning piece of architecture, with its traditional torii gate standing in the water of the lake. Whether you're interested in Japanese culture and religion, or simply looking for a peaceful place to visit, the Hakone Shrine is a must-see.

A historic Shinto shrine located on the shores of Lake Ashi.

Traditional Japanese hot springs, often part of a ryokan (Japanese inn). A must-experience part of Japanese culture.

Onsen are a quintessential part of the Japanese experience, and Hakone is home to some of the country's most renowned hot springs. /n These natural thermal baths are scattered throughout the region, each offering a unique experience. Some are located in traditional ryokan (Japanese inns), while others are set in the great outdoors, surrounded by Hakone's stunning natural beauty. /n The waters of these hot springs are believed to have healing properties, providing relief from ailments such as muscle pain, fatigue, and skin problems. A visit to an onsen is not just about soaking in hot water; it's a ritual that involves washing and rinsing before entering the bath, soaking and relaxing, and then cooling down. It's a practice that promotes both physical and mental well-being. /n In Hakone, you'll find a variety of onsen to choose from, ranging from private baths for those seeking solitude, to communal baths where locals and tourists alike gather to relax and socialize. Regardless of which you choose, a visit to a Hakone onsen is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Onsen are natural hot springs, a key part of Japanese culture and a must-visit in Hakone.

Experience the serene beauty of Hakone, Japan, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Famous for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji, Hakone offers a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the Hakone Shrine hidden in the forest, cruise on the pristine Lake Ashi, or take a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway. Don't miss the Open Air Museum, showcasing impressive sculptures set against stunning mountainous backdrops. Enjoy traditional Kaiseki Ryori (multi-course meal) and unwind in one of the many Onsens (hot springs) for the ultimate Japanese experience. Hakone is a perfect blend of culture, art, and nature.

Hakone Open Air Museum

Lake Ashi

Start your day with a visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum. This museum offers a unique blend of nature and art, showcasing various sculptures on its spacious grounds in combination with beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant. Try the region's specialty, Hakone soba noodles, which are made from local buckwheat.

After lunch, take a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi. The lake is known for its views of Mt. Fuji, its numerous hot springs, historical sites, and ryokan (Japanese inns).

For dinner, indulge in a kaiseki meal, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. This meal is more than just food, it's a feast for the eyes as well.

In the evening, explore Hakone's vibrant nightlife. Visit a local izakaya (Japanese pub) or karaoke bar to experience the local culture.

Exploring Art and Nature

Hakone Shrine

Onsen

Begin your second day with a visit to Owakudani, a volcanic valley with active sulphur vents and hot springs. Don't forget to try the famous black eggs, boiled in the hot springs.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try the local delicacy, yuba (tofu skin), which is often served in a variety of dishes.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Hakone Shrine. This Shinto shrine is known for its iconic red torii gate, which stands in the waters of Lake Ashi.

Enjoy a sushi dinner at a local restaurant. Hakone is known for its fresh seafood, so this is a must-try.

End your day with a relaxing soak in one of Hakone's many Onsen (hot springs). This is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Experiencing Tradition and Relaxation

UTC+9

This is the only mountain railway in Japan. It allows you to travel from Hakone-Yumoto Station (at the base of the mountain) to Gora Station (near the top). The train is known for its switchbacks, where the driver and the conductor change shifts and the train switches to reverse direction.

From Gora Station, you can take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan Station. The cable car travels up the steep slope of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

From Sounzan Station, you can take the Hakone Ropeway to Togendai Station. The ropeway offers stunning views of Lake Ashi, the Owakudani volcanic valley, and on clear days, Mount Fuji.

There are numerous bus lines that operate in Hakone, connecting various tourist attractions such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Shrine, and many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).

From Togendai, you can take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi. The boats are designed like pirate ships, adding a fun element to the journey. The cruise offers beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings.

Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Hakone, especially if you plan to visit areas that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Note that international visitors will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Japan.

Taxis are readily available in Hakone and can be a convenient way to reach your destination. However, they can be expensive for longer distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber are not widely available in Hakone. However, local taxi companies may offer similar services through their own apps.

Many of Hakone's attractions are located in scenic areas that are enjoyable to explore on foot. For example, the Old Tokaido Road is a historic highway that is now a popular hiking trail.

Renting a bicycle can be a fun and active way to explore Hakone. There are several rental shops in the area, and some ryokans may also offer bicycle rentals to their guests.

Yuba is a by-product of tofu and is very popular in Hakone. It's a delicacy often served in traditional multi-course meals.

Yuba

Black Eggs, or Kuro-tamago, are eggs hard-boiled in the hot springs of Hakone. Eating one is said to add seven years to your life.

Black Eggs

Hakone Beer is a local craft beer brewed in the region. It's a must-try for beer enthusiasts visiting Hakone.

Hakone Beer

Soba, or buckwheat noodles, are a staple in Hakone. They are often served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup.

Soba Noodles

Unagi, or freshwater eel, is a popular dish in Hakone. It's usually grilled and served over rice.

Unagi

Tempura is a dish of battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood. It's a common dish in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Tempura

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine. There are several breweries in the Hakone region where you can try different varieties.

Sake

Miso Soup is a traditional Japanese soup consisting of a stock called dashi, miso paste, and various other ingredients. It's a staple in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Miso Soup

Matcha Tea is a type of powdered green tea that is often served in traditional tea ceremonies in Hakone.

Matcha Tea

Yakitori is a popular street food in Hakone. It consists of skewered and grilled chicken, often served with a soy-based sauce.

Yakitori

Udon is a type of thick wheat noodle often served hot in a mildly flavored broth. It's a common dish in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Udon

Amazake is a traditional sweet, low-alcohol Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It's often enjoyed during the New Year's holidays in Hakone.

Amazake

New Year's Day

Day off for New Year's Day

Coming of Age Day

National Foundation Day

Emperor's Birthday

Spring Equinox

Shōwa Day

Constitution Memorial Day

Greenery Day

Children's Day

Sea Day

Mountain Day

Respect for the Aged Day

Autumn Equinox

Sports Day

Culture Day

Labor Thanksgiving Day

National Foundation Day observed

Children's Day observed

Day off for Mountain Day

Autumn Equinox observed

Culture Day observed

A reconstructed castle with a museum inside.

Odawara Castle

A small offshore island, home to some of the closest sandy beaches to Tokyo and Yokohama and offers a variety of attractions.

Enoshima Island

A city known for its significant Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Kamakura

Japan's highest mountain and the focal point of the sprawling Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Mount Fuji

Japan's bustling capital, mixes the ultramodern and the traditional.

Tokyo

Japan's second largest city with a rich history and many attractions.

Yokohama

A city at the entrance to Nikko National Park, most famous for Toshogu, Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine.

Nikko

Fukuoka

Hiroshima

Kanazawa

Kyoto

Morioka

Okinawa

Osaka

Sapporo

Hakone is located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo.

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

Japanese is the official language. English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to learn a few basic phrases.

Hakone is known for its hot springs, or 'onsen'. Remember, it's customary to bathe naked and wash thoroughly before entering the hot springs.

The weather in Hakone is relatively mild. Summers (June to August) can reach up to 86°F (30°C), while winters (December to February) can drop to 32°F (0°C).

Public transportation is efficient and reliable. The Hakone Tozan Train and Hakone Tozan Bus are popular options for getting around.

Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can sometimes be seen as rude.

Hakone is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, so it's a great location for hiking and outdoor activities.

The Hakone Free Pass is a cost-effective way to travel around Hakone. It provides unlimited use of Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, boats, cablecars and ropeways in the Hakone area.

Hakone is famous for its traditional inns, or 'ryokan'. Staying in a ryokan can provide a unique cultural experience.

Most ryokan provide meals as part of the accommodation package. These meals often feature local and seasonal ingredients.

It's customary to remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments in Japan.

Japan operates on a 100V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Hakone is in the Japan Standard Time zone, which is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +9).

Japan has a low crime rate and Hakone is generally a safe place to visit. However, it's always important to take standard travel precautions.

The emergency phone number in Japan is 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance.

Japan has a national health insurance system, but it does not cover short-term visitors. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health.

Hakone is known for its traditional crafts, such as Yosegi Zaiku (marquetry) and Hakone Glass.

The drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.

Japan is a predominantly cash-based society, so it's a good idea to have cash on hand for small purchases, transportation fares, and at locations where cards may not be accepted.

January is the coldest month in Hakone, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. It's a great time to visit the hot springs and enjoy the winter landscapes.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month.

April is a popular time to visit due to the full bloom of cherry blossoms. The weather is mild, but it can be a bit rainy.

May brings warm and comfortable weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The lush greenery and blooming flowers make for beautiful scenery.

June is the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for wet weather. Despite the rain, the temperatures are warm and the scenery is lush.

July is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers. It's a good time to visit the indoor attractions or enjoy a dip in the hot springs.

August is the hottest month in Hakone, with high humidity. It's a great time for water activities, but be prepared for the heat.

September sees the end of summer and the start of autumn. The weather is still warm, but the humidity decreases, making it more comfortable.

October brings cooler temperatures and the beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the fall colors.

November is quite cool, with the autumn foliage at its peak. It's a great time to visit the outdoor hot springs and enjoy the fall scenery.

December is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping and a chance of snow. It's a great time to enjoy the winter scenery and the indoor attractions.

Hakone, Japan is known for its diverse weather patterns, which can greatly influence your travel experience. Here are some weather-related tips to help you plan your trip.

Hakone experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. The summer months, from June to August, can reach temperatures of around 85°F (29°C), so it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. However, sudden rain showers are common during this period, so don't forget to bring a raincoat or umbrella.

The winter months, from December to February, are relatively mild with temperatures usually hovering around 41°F (5°C). However, Hakone is located in a mountainous region, so it can get quite chilly, especially at night. Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Snowfall is not uncommon during these months, so be prepared for potential disruptions to travel plans.

The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are considered the best times to visit Hakone. The temperatures during these seasons are quite comfortable, usually ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). These periods also coincide with the beautiful cherry blossom bloom and the vibrant autumn foliage, respectively.

Regardless of when you visit, Hakone's mountainous terrain can lead to sudden changes in weather. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast regularly during your stay and plan your activities accordingly. Also, remember to pack layers so you can adjust to any unexpected changes in temperature.

Lastly, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, which can be particularly enjoyable during the colder months. So, don't forget to pack a swimsuit, regardless of the season. Enjoy your trip!

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About Hakone, Japan